Introduction
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is a charming coastal town filled with family-friendly activities and unforgettable experiences. When it comes to things to do in Ocean Springs MS, this town offers a perfect blend of arts and culture, outdoor adventures, and delicious dining options that appeal to all ages.
Whether you want to explore local museums, stroll through vibrant galleries, or relax on pristine beaches, Ocean Springs has it all. Families can enjoy nature trails, lively festivals, and historic sites that bring the town’s rich heritage to life. With so many exciting choices, Ocean Springs is an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories together.
Arts & Culture: Creative Experiences for All Ages
Ocean Springs is known for its arts and culture in Ocean Springs that appeals to both kids and adults. From hands-on pottery workshops to colorful museums, families can enjoy creative activities together. These experiences inspire imagination and help children learn new skills. The town loves its artists and provides many places for families to explore art in fun ways.
Visiting the Walter Anderson Museum of Art is a great way to introduce kids to local art. The museum has exhibits designed to catch children’s attention. Shearwater Pottery invites families to watch or even try pottery-making, connecting visitors to Ocean Springs’ rich artistic history. Among the many things to do in ocean springs ms, exploring these creative spots stands out as a favorite. Walking through galleries or joining art walks lets families enjoy creativity while bonding in a beautiful setting.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art
This museum shows the colorful works of Walter Anderson, a famous local artist. Kids love the interactive parts where they can touch and create art. The museum runs programs that make learning fun for all ages. Through Anderson’s paintings, families get a glimpse into nature and the coastal life of Mississippi.
Shearwater Pottery
Shearwater Pottery has been part of Ocean Springs’ art scene for nearly 100 years. Families can watch skilled artists shape clay into beautiful village pottery houses. Sometimes, workshops allow kids to try making their own pieces. This connection to art and tradition makes Shearwater a special stop for families.
Art Walks & Galleries
Ocean Springs hosts regular art walks where families can visit galleries and meet artists. These events bring the town to life with colorful art and music. Kids enjoy seeing different styles and may even be inspired to create their own art.The galleries offer paintings, sculptures, and crafts that show the local coastal spirit and provide plenty of unique home decor ideas for visitors looking to brighten their living spaces.
Outdoor Adventures: Nature and Recreation
If your family loves nature, Ocean Springs offers many outdoor adventures in Ocean Springs. The area includes national parks, easy nature trails, and peaceful waterways to explore. Hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, or just relaxing outside makes a perfect day for families. These outdoor activities help children learn about the environment while having fun.
Just like thoughtful front yard landscaping ideas can transform a home’s outdoor space into a natural retreat, exploring places like the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fontainebleau Nature Trail, and Davis Bayou lets families connect with nature and enjoy protected beaches, birdwatching, and calm waters for kayaking and picnics.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
This national park has miles of untouched coastline, perfect for family exploration. You can walk sandy beaches, watch wildlife, and learn from park rangers. Many kids enjoy spotting turtles, birds, and fish. The park offers programs that explain nature in ways children can easily understand.
Fontainebleau Nature Trail
This short trail takes you through coastal wetlands full of birds and plants. It’s stroller-friendly and easy for kids to enjoy. Signs along the path teach visitors about the local ecosystem. Walking here is a peaceful way for families to connect with nature.
Davis Bayou Area
Davis Bayou offers picnic areas with grills and tables for a nice outdoor lunch. The bayou’s calm water makes it great for kayaking or canoeing with the family. You can rent boats nearby or simply enjoy the peaceful setting. Bird lovers will find many species to watch.
Beaches & Waterfront Fun
Ocean Springs has some of the best beaches in Ocean Springs for families. The sand is clean and the water is calm, making it safe and fun for children. You can build sandcastles, swim, or relax under the sun. There are restrooms and parking close by, which is helpful for families.
Horn Island is a nearby barrier island that offers a more wild beach experience. It’s great for families with older kids who want to explore nature and wildlife. The Biloxi Bay Bridge area provides lovely views and is popular for fishing and family photos. These waterfront spots are some of the top things to do in Ocean Springs MS, adding excitement and relaxation to your family trip.
Ocean Springs Beach
Ocean Springs Beach is perfect for families with lifeguards on duty during busy seasons. The water is gentle and the shore is great for kids to play. Nearby playgrounds and picnic areas add to the fun. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming for all ages.
Horn Island
Accessible by ferry, Horn Island offers a natural beach experience away from crowds. Families can explore tide pools, watch dolphins, and enjoy quiet nature. Since it has limited facilities, packing food and water is important. It’s an adventure that older kids especially appreciate.
Biloxi Bay Bridge
The area near Biloxi Bay Bridge is famous for its beautiful views. Families come here for fishing, walking, or just enjoying the sunset. The calm waters invite gentle paddling or relaxing by the shore with the family.
Dining: Family-Friendly Eateries
Eating out with kids is easy in Ocean Springs thanks to many family dining ideas in Ocean Springs options. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood, Southern dishes, and kid-approved meals. From casual cafés to lively seafood spots, there’s something delicious for everyone.
Seafood restaurants serve fresh Gulf shrimp, crab cakes, and fish, often with kid-friendly sides. Downtown cafés offer light meals, sandwiches, and sweet snacks in cozy settings. Ice cream shops and bakeries provide perfect treats after a day of exploring. These family-friendly eateries make meals enjoyable and stress-free.
Local Seafood Restaurants
Ocean Springs is famous for its fresh seafood. Restaurants like The Shed and Sal & Mookie’s serve fried shrimp baskets, fish tacos, and other favorites. They have casual, welcoming atmospheres perfect for families. Kids often love simple, tasty dishes.
Downtown Cafés
Downtown cafés such as Java Hound and Morning Star Café offer coffee, pastries, and easy lunches. Their menus please adults and children alike. These spots have friendly service and comfortable spaces for families to relax.
Ice Cream and Sweet Treats
Ice cream shops like Corner Cone are great places to cool down. They offer many flavors that delight both kids and adults. Bakeries nearby serve cupcakes and cookies, making a sweet ending to a family day. Treating your family to these desserts adds joy to any outing.
Festivals & Events: Year-Round Family Entertainment
Ocean Springs is alive with family festivals in Ocean Springs and events all year. These gatherings showcase the town’s culture and bring the community together. Families can enjoy music, crafts, food, and parades while creating memories.
The Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival is a colorful event with crafts and kid activities. Mardi Gras parades bring fun costumes and floats for all ages. Fresh Market Saturdays feature local produce, crafts, and live music that entertain families outdoors.
Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival
This lively festival celebrates local artists with music, crafts, and food vendors. Families enjoy watching artists at work and browsing unique handmade goods. Special children’s activities keep kids entertained throughout the event.
Mardi Gras Parades
Mardi Gras in Ocean Springs is fun and family-friendly. Parades feature bright floats and lively music. Kids enjoy catching beads and joining the cheerful crowd. The celebrations are safe and welcoming for families.
Fresh Market Saturdays
Every Saturday, the Fresh Market brings farmers, artists, and musicians together. Families can buy fresh food, handmade crafts, and enjoy live shows. The festive atmosphere makes it a favorite weekly event for locals and visitors.
Historical Sites: Educational Adventures
Ocean Springs offers many historical sites in Ocean Springs where families can learn about the past. Visiting these places mixes education with exploration. Kids can discover stories about the town and its people in a fun way.
The Charnley–Norwood House is a historic home with unique architecture that fascinates visitors. The Ocean Springs Historic L & N Depot museum tells the story of the town’s railroad history with interactive displays.These sites offer tours designed for families and are some of the best things to do in Ocean Springs MS for those interested in history and culture.
Charnley–Norwood House
This historic house blends art and history in its design. Tours explain the architecture and the lives of early residents. Kids enjoy hearing stories and seeing the craftsmanship of this coastal home.
Ocean Springs Historic L & N Depot
Once a busy train station, this depot now serves as a museum. It displays artifacts, photos, and model trains that appeal to children. The museum explains how the railroad helped Ocean Springs grow into the town it is today.
Shopping: Unique Finds for the Whole Family
Shopping in Ocean Springs means finding special local treasures for all ages. Shops like Coastal Magpie and My Happy Place Gallery of Art offer quirky gifts, art, and décor. These stores support local artists and inspire creativity.
Coastal Magpie has unique jewelry, coastal-themed home décor, and unique lighting ideas that brighten any space. Kids love exploring the colorful items and picking souvenirs. My Happy Place Gallery offers art pieces and workshops where families can create together. For those looking for memorable things to do in Ocean Springs MS, shopping here is a fun and creative experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Tips for Visiting Ocean Springs with Kids
When visiting Ocean Springs with your family, bring comfortable shoes and sun protection. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor fun to avoid the heat. Parking is available but busy during festivals. Carry snacks and water when exploring outdoors.
Visit during festivals for extra excitement but expect crowds. For quieter trips, choose weekdays or off-peak seasons. Pack layers for changing coastal weather. These simple tips help make your family visit smooth and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Ocean Springs offers a rich mix of experiences that make it a fantastic destination for families. From exploring vibrant arts and culture to enjoying peaceful beaches and exciting outdoor adventures, there is never a dull moment.
The town’s welcoming spirit, delicious food, and year-round events add even more reasons to visit. If you’re planning a family trip, these things to do in Ocean Springs MS will ensure your time together is full of fun, learning, and lasting memories.
